Johnny Russell joins Sporting Kansas City from Derby County

Johnny Russell in action for Derby against Manchester United earlier this month.

Johnny Russell has signed with Major League Soccer's Sporting Kansas City after leaving Derby County.

The 27-year-old striker, who has made over 200 appearances for the Rams, was out of contract in the summer and the MLS club announced the transfer on Wednesday.

"Johnny Russell is a player with good attacking qualities who we are excited to bring to Kansas City in the very near term," Sporting KC manager Peter Vermes said. "We look forward to acclimating him to our club in preparation for the start of the season in just over a month."

Particulars of the deal were not disclosed, but Russell signed a three-year MLS contract through 2020 with an option for 2021.

The Sun reported that Derby would receive a transfer fee of £250,000 ($353,000).

"I think his wish is to pursue a chance to play in MLS," Derby boss Gary Rowett said on Tuesday. "He's turned down those contract offers. We'll have to look at that situation.''

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